Overview
Recognize the flower above? That is Takashi Murakami’s iconic flower motif. Murakami, born February 1, 1962, started first studying classical Japanese painting, but later with the influence of anime and manga transitioned to becoming a contemporary artist. He has created various iconic works with the smiling flower being one of them. Gagosian states, “These figures act as icons and symbols—hosts for more complex themes of violence, technology, and fantasy.” Murakami started the Superflat movement which drew attention and emphasized the Japanese consumer culture being shallow post-World War II. And his use of bright colors highlights a sense of excitement but can also seem overwhelming. I chose him as a part of my design lineage because of his use of bright colors, similar to my work. He creates maximalist art that makes the eye wander throughout the work noticing detail. And that’s something I’m very fond of in others’ work which I hope to also incorporate in mine. That attention to detail that not many may notice but those who are keen will. I believe his influence of manga and anime allowed him to develop such cartoonish characters in his plays into his feelings of joy and youth. Also resonated with the decisions in my work.
Work comparisons
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